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Liz Hancock, chief executive at the Mary Ann Evans Hospice, explained that the situation the hospice was in was not “unique” and other charities, both local and national, were struggling to raise funds in a “very competitive and challenging” environment.

Mary Ann Evans Hospice

Running costs per day at the hospice are £2,600 each day and that figure is rising.

Liz said: “While we are unable to discuss individuals due to confidentiality we can confirm that unfortunately the Mary Ann Evans Hospice has had to make the difficult decision to make the role of fund-raising manager redundant.

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“ The hospice has had two significant deficit accounting years and all departments have, and continue to be, under review as we look at ways to save money whilst identifying sustainable income.

“Our focus, as always, remains firmly on our clinical services that we continue to provide for our patients and their families.

“I am also able to confirm that the recent resignation of two Trustees from the Hospice Board were both expected. One had given us a year’s notice and the other’s term of office was up in September but unfortunately has left early due to personal reasons. Neither was in any way connected to the previous statement.”

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The hospice, which was set up in 1994, relies on the support of the local community for two thirds of its income.

Staff at Mary Ann Evans Hospice in Nuneaton celebrating 20 years in 2014

Addressing the current financial situation, Liz added: “Obviously costs continue to rise and much of this is out of our control with the things like the introduction of the living wage and auto enrolment. It is also getting harder to raise funds, especially sustainable funds and sadly this situation is not unique to us.

“The support we receive from our local community is tremendous and we really would not be here without them.

“While we look at ways of saving money it in no way affects the services we provide or our plans for the future. We are constantly looking at ways to work differently, to work smarter and also in partnership with other care providers in the area.”

Anyone who would like to offer their support or fund-raise for the hospice should either visit www.maryannevans.org.uk or call 024 7686 5450.